Phototreatment device for use with coolants

Abstract

Methods and systems are disclosed for phototreatment in which replaceable containers comprising one or more adjuvant (consumable or re-useable) substances are employed. The adjuvant substance can be, for example, a topical substance or a coolant. Systems are disclosed for using a topical substance to detect contact of a phototreatment device with a tissue, detect speed of a phototreatment device over the tissue, detect regions of tissue that have been treated by a phototreatment device and / or to provide other benefits to the tissue such as improved skin tone and texture, tanning, etc. Safety systems are also disclosed that ensure that a proper consumable substance and / or container is connected to a phototreatment device and / or directed to a proper target. Additionally, cooling systems and methods that utilize phase change materials for extracting heat from a light generating device are disclosed.

Description

PRIORITY [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 693,682 filed Oct. 23, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 154,756 filed May 23, 2002 and claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 420,645 filed Oct. 23, 2002 and U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 498,258 filed Aug. 25, 2003.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention is directed generally to systems and methods for phototreatment in which adjuvant substances are used for cooling or topical applications. [0003] There exists a variety of conditions that are treatable using phototreatments of tissue (e.g., phototherapeutic and photocosmetic treatments). Such phototreatments include light-based hair removal, treatment of various skin lesions (including pigmented and vascular lesions as well as acne), tattoo removal, facial skin improvement, fat and cellulite treatment, scar removal, and skin rejuvenation (including wrinkle reduction and impro...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes methods and systems for using phototreatment devices with replaceable containers for topical substances. These containers can be used to detect contact with the device, speed of treatment, and regions of tissue that have been treated. The containers can also contain markers to indicate the substance used. The system includes a detector to monitor the substance in the container. The containers can be fluidly coupled to the device and can contain phase change materials for cooling or other purposes. The system can also include a subassembly for easy replacement of the containers. The technical effects of this invention include improved skin texture and tone, reduced acne and scarring, and improved hair growth."

Problems solved by technology

For example, because of the use of high-power radiation to perform phototreatments, one or more electronic or optical components may generate significant amounts of heat.

While consumable substances, such as those discussed above may provide benefits, the use of consumable materials may lead to difficulty and expense in packaging, handling, and manufacturing of phototreatment devices employing such materials.

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